Recent UN interventions have raised concerns over the use of lethal force in counter-narcotics operations following reports of U.S. strikes on suspected “drug vessels” in the Caribbean and Pacific.

During an interactive dialogue at the Third Committee of the UN General Assembly, High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk emphasized that States’ responses to drug trafficking must comply with international human rights law, and that any killings must be investigated.

In a separate press briefing, the UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism, Ben Saul, described the strikes as “illegal killings under international law”.

Both officials reiterated that the rule of law and protection of life are essential in drug control efforts – principles central to the Global Commission on Drug Policy.

Watch Volker Türk’s statement (starts at 2:32:52)